20 December 2012
Jersey’s mobile library service will start the new year with updated routes and 5 new stops designed to improve access and attract new users.
The changes, which come into effect on 2 January 2013, result from a customer survey that took place during the summer.
The new stops will have more parking and the vehicle will be more visible. They are:
- St Lawrence rifle range - moved from the Arsenal
- Holme Grown car park in Grouville – moved from La Rocque
- Le Benefice in St Clement – moved from Les Marais Good Companions
- Les Creux Country Park in St Brelade - will replace La Pulente, which was not well used
- La Providence in St Lawrence is an additional new stop
Other improvements include later times for stops at Clos Gosset and Grasset Park, which have been moved to 6.20pm and 5.50pm respectively. Some other times have also changed and stops have been extended to allow readers more time to choose their books.
A new purpose-built, environmentally friendly library vehicle with better disabled access and a new stock of books was introduced in October 2012.
Chief Librarian Pat Davis explained "The arrival of our new vehicle was the first step to improving access for our regulars, many of whom are elderly people or young mums who find it difficult to get to the town library. The mobile service is often a real lifeline for them.
“The next step is to update our routes and stops. Our users inevitably change over time and so do their requirements. We have reviewed what we offer and where and adapted the service so that we reach as many people as possible. I am delighted that the new timetable will come into effect on 2 January 2013.”
The driver and librarians are giving copies of the new timetable to regular users to give them advance notice of the changes and new times. Customers can also call the Town Library or their Parish Hall for more information or access the timetable online.